When it comes to issues of distorted body image and eating disorders, studies and stories of how women are affected abound. Not so with men. Yet, men comprise at least ten percent of all eating disorder cases.

"Males struggle with eating concerns and, like their female counterparts, these disorders can take a tremendous toll on their lives &

Competition in sports that emphasize lean body shapes (cross country, diving, gymnastics) or larger body builds (football) may also influence the development of an eating disorder in males. Certainly, magazine ads of men with six-packs and arms the size of tree trunks can make any male feel inadequate. [Source: The Daily Vidette (Illinois State University)]

Men, like women, need to remember that bodies come in all shapes and sizes  not everyone looks like the guy in the magazine (and not everyone is supposed to). A focus on health, rather than size, weight, or muscle tone, can help both men and women stave off insecurity and body dissatisfaction.

Labels: men, eating disorders

Posted By: Aspen/CRC